Mitel has been a key player in the business communications industry for years, but with recent changes, there’s been some speculation about the company’s future. To date, Mitel is very much operational and doing well. Affiliated Communications, a proud Platinum Mitel Partner, is here to help businesses understand these changes and make informed decisions.
Mitel’s Current Status: Not Going Anywhere
Don’t believe what’s coming from the rumor mill, Mitel is not shutting down. The company remains active, although it has undergone some significant strategic adjustments. Recently acquired by venture capitalists, Mitel has decided to discontinue the ShoreTel product line known as MiVoice Connect by the end of the decade. This change has understandably caused concern among customers who rely on ShoreTel’s features.
The reality is that Mitel initially acquired ShoreTel to expand into newer cloud services but discovered that maintaining these services long-term wasn’t viable. As a result, Mitel has returned to focusing on its traditional strengths: on-premise communication systems like MiVoice Business, its legacy platform. For many organizations, these systems continue to offer reliable, secure options with optional cloud deployments.
Challenges with Mitel’s Current Direction
Mitel’s shift back to emphasizing on-premise solutions has presented challenges. As the business communications market evolves, customers expect more flexibility and future-proof strategies. The discontinuation of ShoreTel has left some users feeling stranded or questioning their future, especially those who’ve built their operations around these platforms. Mitel has provided a path for those who wish to adopt cloud through a partnership with RingCentral.
Still, Mitel remains committed to supporting on-premise technologies, which many businesses prefer for control, reliability, and data security. Regardless of the situation and choices, the need to consider long-term planning has never been more critical.
What This Means for Your Business
For those who use Mitel’s systems, the good news is that reliable on-premise solutions are still available and supported.
- MiVoice Business is Mitel’s enterprise business solution. This Mitel phone system is designed to provide complete communication, collaboration, and customer experience for every user. Chat and video features allow coworkers to feel connected from anywhere.
At Affiliated Communications, we help organizations assess whether to maintain their existing systems or explore new paths that align with future goals so you can scale your business no matter your industry or size. Our team works to ensure you’re making informed decisions. Whether you value the stability of on-premise solutions or are weighing other strategic options such as cloud phone systems, we provide clear guidance and expert support.
Affiliated Communications: Your Partner Through Change
Navigating industry shifts can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. As a Platinum Mitel Partner, Affiliated Communications has the experience and insight to help your business adapt smoothly to Mitel changes. We specialize in analyzing your current setup, identifying your needs, and recommending the best approach to keep your communication systems efficient and secure. Being proactive is key to avoiding disruptions, and updating your communication strategy now can prevent unexpected challenges.
Our goal is to ensure your operations remain uninterrupted and that your technology investments yield maximum returns. With comprehensive assessments and tailored solutions, Affiliated Communications helps you make sound decisions that support your long-term goals, whether your concern is operational continuity, cost management, or future-proofing your systems. Trust us to guide you toward the best solution for your business needs.
FAQs
1. Is Mitel going out of business?
No. Mitel is not going out of business and remains a major player in the business communications industry, focusing on its core on-premise system MiVoice Business.
2. Why did Mitel discontinue ShoreTel products?
Mitel acquired ShoreTel to expand its offerings but later decided that maintaining these solutions long-term was not viable. The focus has shifted back to Mitel’s strength in on-premise communications to provide a more sustainable, reliable service for customers.
3. What are the benefits of Mitel’s on-premise solutions?
Mitel’s on-premise solution, MiVoice Business, offers advantages like high security, greater control over communication data, and robust reliability, making them suitable for industries with strict compliance requirements.
4. Should I switch from Mitel to a cloud-based phone system?
It depends on your business needs. If your organization values flexibility and remote work capabilities, a cloud-based system may be beneficial. Affiliated Communications can assess your current setup and help you decide whether to stick with Mitel or explore modern, cloud-based alternatives.
5. How can I prepare for the discontinuation of ShoreTel products?
Start planning early by exploring your options. Affiliated Communications provides consultations to evaluate whether transitioning to other Mitel solutions or moving to a different provider is the best fit for your long-term goals. We can help you navigate this change smoothly and with minimal disruption.